The November meeting attracted 26 members to hear a talk given by Pearl McCabe and Martin Dawes. The subject the Manorbier Fishponds Restoration - a Millennium Project, whose aim is to recapture the medieval landscape between the 'dovecote' and Manorbier Castle, giving safe access with information boards creating a tourist attraction.
The first part of the talk, given by Pearl McCabe, consisted of guidance in setting up a similar project and a detailed explanation of the methods used by the members of the Fishponds Committee in gathering relevant information. Visits were made to the National Library, private and local libraries, local residents were interviewed and old photographs, maps and paintings perused to attempt to ascertain the possible situation and appearance of the medieval ponds.
Martin Dawes conducted the second part of the talk detailing the work done by archaeology students in obtaining bore samples to determine the boundaries and depth of the original area involved. No final conclusions have yet been reached and more investigative work is still required.
The evening was concluded with the opportunity to study the ancient maps, census returns and photographs obtained during investigations done by the Fishponds Committee.
There is no meeting in December, instead the group's Christmas meal will be held on December 3. The next meeting is on January 7, when the annual general meeting will take place. This will be followed by the quiz and a supper. Any enquiries, please telephone (01834) 871209.